New Zealand 7s Head Coach Tomasi Cama has announced the addition of three new players to the team as preparations commence for the upcoming 2024-25 HSBC SVNS Series. The fresh faces include Oli Mathis from Waikato, Sofai Maka from North Harbour, and Joey Taumateine, who is advancing from the New Zealand Men’s Sevens Development team.
Cama expressed enthusiasm about integrating young talent into the squad, stating, “As coaches, it excites us to bring young people in and help with their growth. They have to learn fast, but that is all part of the excitement.”
The team will be led by captain Dylan Collier, who will be supported by seasoned players Joe Webber and Sione Molia, both of whom bring over 50 matches’ experience in the iconic black jersey. Cama emphasized the importance of staying true to the team’s identity, saying, “We’ve talked a lot about connecting to our DNA. This team is about hard work, which will be the foundation that allows us to play a brand of rugby we all love; exciting, free playing, unstructured. That’s what we want to go out there to do.”
As New Zealand’s 7s team gears up for the series, the introduction of fresh talent alongside established players signals a commitment to both development and competitiveness, fostering an optimistic atmosphere as they aim for success on the international stage. This strategic approach could bolster the team’s performance and help nurture the next generation of rugby stars.
Overall, the situation presents a hopeful outlook for the future of New Zealand 7s rugby, as the blend of emerging players and experienced athletes may lead to new heights in the upcoming series.
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